FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Typewriters — Condition & What's Included
Are your typewriters fully working?
Yes. Every typewriter we sell is professionally serviced and in fully working condition, unless a specific listing states otherwise. If a machine has any known issue or is sold as a display/project piece, this will always be clearly noted in that product's description.
What comes with the typewriter when I receive it?
Every typewriter ships ready to use, with two brand-new ink ribbons included — one already installed in the machine, and one spare so you're set for a long time before needing a replacement.
Can I add extra ribbons to my order?
Yes. Beyond the two ribbons already included with every typewriter, you can add extra ribbons for $5 each. We offer two types:
- Olivetti-specific ribbons (GR4) — designed specifically for Olivetti models.
- Universal ribbons — compatible with most other brands.
If you're not sure which one your machine needs, don't worry — if we notice the ribbon you selected doesn't match your typewriter's model, we'll reach out to double-check before shipping.
Can I request a custom color or finish for my typewriter?
Yes, we offer customization on selected typewriter models. Reach out to us via WhatsApp or email to check availability and options for the model you're interested in.
Shipping
How do you ship your products?
About 95% of our orders ship via FedEx, which is our default for typewriters and most items. For a small percentage (roughly 5%) of lighter, smaller products, we use trusted postal services (such as Correos in Spain) instead, since FedEx isn't cost-efficient for very light items. Either way, every shipment — regardless of carrier — is fast, reliable, and always includes a tracking number.
How long does shipping take?
Once dispatched, delivery times are:
- Europe & United Kingdom: 3–5 business days
- United States: 5–7 business days
- Rest of the world: 5–10 business days
How fast do you dispatch orders?
We dispatch every order the next business day after purchase — we pride ourselves on being fast to get your item on its way.
Is shipping included in the price?
Yes. The price you see on every listing already includes shipping — there are no surprise shipping fees added at checkout. The only additional cost that may apply is import tax, depending on your country (see below).
Customs & Import Taxes
Will I have to pay customs or import tax?
This depends on your country's import regulations, as we don't control local customs policy. As an example, orders shipped to the United States may be subject to an import tax of around 15% — but importantly, this is calculated on the declared value of the item itself, not on the full amount you paid (which also includes shipping). In practice, this means the taxable amount is lower than your total order price. We recommend checking your country's specific import duty thresholds if you want to estimate this in advance.
Returns & Refunds
What happens if my item arrives damaged, defective, or not as described?
You're fully covered. If your item arrives broken, damaged, doesn't work as expected, or doesn't match its listing description, simply send us proof (photos/video) via WhatsApp or email. We'll provide a prepaid return label so you can drop the item off at a UPS point, and you'll receive a full refund, no hassle.
Can I return an item just because I changed my mind?
Yes — if the item is fully functional and matches its description, but you simply decide you don't want it, you can still return it for a full refund. In this case, since the return isn't due to any fault on our part, the cost of the return label (approximately $20–30, depending on the item) is deducted from your refund rather than covered by us.
Extras & Add-ons
Do you offer gift wrapping?
Yes! We offer gift wrapping plus a personalized handwritten note for $4 — a nice touch if your order is a gift.
What are your typewritten poems?
We offer original poems, typed on a real vintage typewriter, as a unique keepsake. You simply give us five words to inspire the theme of your poem, and we take care of the rest. Poems are available:
- As an add-on/upsell with any physical product order, or
- On their own, in digital form, for $10.
Pricing & Discounts
Can I negotiate the price of an item?
We're generally open to offers — some items have more flexibility on price than others, depending on rarity and demand. Feel free to reach out and ask; the worst we can say is no.
Do you offer discounts for multiple items?
Yes, we're happy to put together special pricing or discounts for orders with several items — just get in touch before checking out and we'll see what we can do.
Support
How can I contact you if I have a question?
We offer support via WhatsApp, email, and social media, with no obligation — feel free to reach out with any question before or after your purchase:
- Email: elrastroantiques@gmail.com
- WhatsApp: +34 684 415 260
- Instagram: @el_rastro_antiques
- Facebook: El Rastro Antique's Warehouses
You'll find the same contact details at the top of our website.
A few extra ones worth having
Will the typewriter I receive look exactly like the one in the photos?
Since every item we sell is a genuine vintage piece, each one is unique — the photos show you the actual condition and finish of the specific unit for sale (not a generic stock photo), so what you see is exactly what you'll receive.
Are these typewriters suitable for everyday typing, or just for display?
Both! Every machine sold as "fully working" is genuinely ready for real use — journaling, letters, creative writing — not just decorative. That said, many customers also love displaying them simply for their design.
Is my order packaged safely for international shipping?
Yes. Typewriters and fragile items are carefully packed to withstand international transit, with extra protection for moving parts and glass/delicate components.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major payment methods available at checkout, processed securely through our store.
Can I track my order?
Yes — every order, regardless of carrier, ships with a tracking number, which we provide as soon as your item is dispatched.